The Art of Silambam

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Silambam classes have mushroomed across Tamil Nadu in schools, in public spaces like beaches and parks, and at martial art institutes. 

About Silambam 

• It is a traditional martial art developed in Tamil Nadu, India. 
• It is originated around 1000 this ancient fighting style is mentioned in Tamil Sangam literature 400 BCE. 
• The name is derived from the Tamil word “Silambal” which roughly translates to sounds of the hills and nature.
• Silambam was used by kings, soldiers and even civilians as a foundation for honing the skills in defence tactics.
• Silambam is now predominantly a striking art using punching, kicking, knee strikes, elbow strikes, Weapon strikes and open-hand techniques such as knife-hands, spear-hands and palm-heel strikes. 
  • Archaeologically, and in some modern styles, grappling, throws, joint locks, restraints and vital-point strikes are also taught.

Image Courtesy:isc-silambam.org

• Various initiatives 
  • International Non-Olympic Committee (INOC) had taken footsteps to develop the traditional sport. 
    • In the year 2019, INOC declared “Silambam” as Non-Olympic Sports and formed a separate commission as “International Silambam Committee (ISC)”. 
  • The Government of India has also approved the inclusion of silambam under the component of ‘Promotion of Inclusiveness through Sports’ of the New Khelo India Scheme.

Source:LM